To connect different wire terminals, terminal screws or terminal blocks play an important role.
In this article, we’ll cover the mechanism of the working of the terminal screws and the way they can benefit you in detail.
What is a terminal block?
For people unaware of the electronic stuff, let us share what they are. The terminal block is a modular housing with an insulated body to secure wires together.
They are used in multiple electrical settings where you need a secure and well-organized connection. They work in situations where you need to create semi-permanent connections or circuits that can be checked and repaired easily.
Also Check: Chicago Electrician
Types of terminal blocks:
These blocks come in multiple designs and types. Here’s the list of the most prominent ones:
PCB Mount – euro style or wire to bard terminal blocks
Barrier strips – effective in a vibration setting
Feedthrough– works best in wire to wire connections
Factors to consider before choosing the terminal block:
To ensure a secure and effective connection, you must know the factors that would be shaping your choices:
Current rating:
This metric is determined by analyzing the conductivity of the terminals, heat increase, and cross-sectional area. You should look for the terminal screws that have been tested for 150% of the max current that you expect to flow in a particular circuit.
Also Read: How to measure electricity?
Pitch:
The Pitch of a terminal block is the distance from one pole to the other. Usually, you’ll find 2.54 mm, 3.81 mm, 5.0 mm, and 7.62 mm as the main pitches for the switch. You can even get a customized Pitch for your circuit.
Voltage rating:
Dielectric strength and the Pitch of terminal block housing determine this rating. You should choose the terminal screw with a higher voltage rating than what you expect to flow in the system. This estimate must account for the voltage surges in the system.
Pole count:
Pole Count measures the presence of individual circuits in a terminal block. It can vary considerably. So, you’ll have to select your terminal block accordingly.
Wire size:
The wire size that fits into the terminal screw is also one of the important things to consider before buying it. You have stranded and multi-core wire as the two commonly used options. So, analyze your wire needs before finalizing.
Summing up;
While making your purchase of your terminal screws, keep these factors under consideration, and you’ll get the best one, fitting all your needs.
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